Effect of compression on the enhancement of friction and strengthen of double-walled carbon nanotube bundles: A molecular dynamics study

► Our MD studies show that double-walled carbon nanotube bundles have excellent compressibility and recovery properties. ► After deformation, the collapsed nanotube decrease the cross sectional area. ► Also it can increase the friction force within the nanotube bundles, at least 1.6 times than before. ► This study shows an efficient way to reinforce the strength of carbon nanotube fibers.